Download Eye Clinic - The Chelmsford

Eye Clinic
A Centre of Excellence
www.thechelmsford.co.uk
The most friendly and loveliest
people in their kind of profession
I have ever come across, from the
nurse to the anaesthetist, surgeon
and recovery nurses.
The Chelmsford Eye Clinic is a
centre of excellence for all eye
conditions. Conveniently located
in the centre of Chelmsford, we
offer state-of-the art treatment
and surgical facilities supported by
specialist ophthalmic consultants.
Patients can usually be seen within 2-4 days
of contacting the Clinic or a referral has been
received.
As a private eye clinic, we dedicate ourselves
to providing the highest standards of clinical
expertise and patient care.
Contents
4. Eye conditions treated
6. Diagnostics
9. Treatment options
12.Our consultants
13.Referrals and appointments
14.How to find us
Eye conditions treated
Cataracts
The normal lens of the eye gradually becomes denser as we get older which can result in a blurring
of the vision. This is the common type of cataract (nuclear sclerosis) that occurs with age and may
result in constantly blurred vision or a frequent need for a change in the spectacle prescription.
Other types of cataract at the front or back of the lens (anterior or posterior sub-capsular cataracts)
can also occur and can give rise to symptoms of glare and dazzle with lights, for example when
driving at night. Some cataracts can be associated with underlying medical conditions.
Corneal disorders
The cornea is the clear, dome shaped surface of the eye that protects the eye from germs and helps the
eye to focus. There are a number of disorders than can affect the cornea, examples of which include:
allergies, conjunctivitis, infections, dry eye, Fuchs’ dystrophy, other corneal dystrophies, keratoconus,
herpes simplex and Zoster. A corneal abnormality can cause blurring of vision and/or eye pain.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of conditions that cause a characteristic pattern of damage
to the eye that is in part related to an intraocular pressure (eye pressure) that is too high. This
damage causes patchy loss of vision that varies in severity.
Macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disorder in which the central retina, the macula,
becomes damaged, leading to a reduction in central vision. AMD is the most common cause of
serious loss of vision in Europe and the USA. It affects the central (detail) vision, but normally leaves
the outer (peripheral) vision unaffected.
Refractive disorders
The inability to focus light rays sharply is called refractive disorder and is caused by abnormal
size, shape or consistency of the cornea and/or lens, in relation to the length of the eye. Refractive
disorders can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, laser or surgical procedures.
Squints / Lazy Eye
Lazy eye is a reduced vision in either or both eyes that persists after correction of any refractive
error (i.e. when looking through the optimum glasses) and without any other eye diseases being
present. It can be caused by squints, different spectacle prescription between the eyes or through
using very strong glasses. Some cases are also caused by uncorrected astigmatism and diseases
in the eye structures that prevent images getting to the retina.
Ectropion
Ectropion is the medical term used to describe outward turning of the lower eyelid and eyelashes.
The margin of the eyelid and the eyelashes evert (turn out). This can lead to excessive tearing,
crusting of the eyelid, mucous discharge and irritation of the eye.
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Entropion
Entropion is the medical term used to describe the rolling inward of the lower eyelid and eyelashes
towards the eye. The skin of the eyelid and the eyelashes rub against the cornea and conjunctiva.
This rubbing can be very uncomfortable and damage the delicate tissues around the front of the
eye. It can also impair vision.
Ptosis
Droopy upper eyelid occurs when the edge of the upper eyelid that contains the lashes falls too
low. When this happens, the edge of the eyelid covers part of the pupil blocking the upper part of
your vision. In severe cases it is necessary to tilt one’s head back or lift the eyelid with a finger
in order to see out from under the drooping lid.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a very common condition which affects the eyelid margins of both eyes and can
affect both children and adults. It is a low-grade chronic infection caused by common skin bacteria
and a number of uncomfortable symptoms such as crusting, irritation, eyelid margin redness,
watery eyes and burning or itching of the eyelids. It is sometimes associated with the skin
condition called rosacea.
Watery eyes
Eyes may water either because of too much tear secretion (due to irritation of the eye, Blepharitis
or allergy) or because of a blockage in the tear drainage system. Watery eyes symptoms include
blurred vision, irritation of the skin around the eye and infection of the tear drainage system.
It can sometimes prevent people from wearing make-up and potentially causes embarrassment.
Other procedures carried out include:
Reconstructive eye surgery following injury, unsuccessful previous eye surgery or ocular burn
Refractive surgery
The removal of eyelid lesions and cysts
Reconstructive surgery of the eyelids following tumour excision or injury
Management of spasms/twitching of eyelids using botulinum toxin injections
The removal of excess upper eyelid skin
All types of eyelid and tear drainage surgery
Sight testing
Private sight tests and diabetic screening are both available at the eye clinic.
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Ophthalmic Diagnostic Testing
At The Chelmsford Eye Clinic, our goal is to achieve the best clinical outcomes for all our
patients. Our approach combines the skills of our consultant-led eye health team with the latest
diagnostic technology and the highest standards of patient care.
We also understand how important it is to take the time to explain diagnoses, treatment options,
procedures and expected outcomes to ensure the whole experience at The Chelmsford Eye
Clinic is as comfortable as possible.
Glaucoma tests comprise:
Computerised Visual Field Assessment: this will map out the function of the retinal nerves
at the back of the eye. The simple hi-tech assessment detects, plots and analyses less
sensitive and blank areas of the patient’s field of vision.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): this provides exceptional detail of the structure
of the optic nerve. The detailed statistical analysis makes it possible to detect glaucoma
damage before vision is lost.
Retinal Photography: this high resolution digital camera photographs the back of the eye
recording even the smallest abnormality.
Central Corneal Thickness: the thickness of the front surface of the eye is scanned and
measured to provide a more accurate interpretation of the pressure inside the eye. For
example, a thin cornea underestimates a pressure reading so this additional measure is
important for accurate detection. Incidentally, a thin cornea is also a risk factor for glaucoma
in itself.
Consultation: the health of your retina, optic disc and structures of the eye are examined
using a slit lamp and ophthalmoscope by our consultant ophthalmologist. The pressure in
the eye is measured using the gold standard applanation tonometer attached to the slit
lamp. This is the only part of the testing which patients may find slightly uncomfortable but
anaesthetic eye drops with yellow dye are used to allow the instrument to painlessly touch
the front of the eye.
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Retinal problems and macular disorders are detected using:
A computerised eye test: to assess the patient’s sight and visual acuity.
Optical Coherence Tomography: the OCT uses the latest definition scanning technology
to record magnified cross sectional images of the retina and macular. A colour photograph
of the retina is also recorded. OCT detects problems early to allow medical practitioners to
initiate treatment to preserve and save eyesight. OCT has revolutionised the early detection
and treatment of retinal conditions such as Wet Age Related Macular Degeneration (Wet
AMD) that damages precise and central vision.
Consultation: the health of the retina, optic disc and structures of the patient’s eye are
examined using a slit lamp and ophthalmoscope by our consultant surgeon.
Squints / Lazy Eye are assessed using:
A full eye examination, including measurement of visual acuity and refraction, which is
required to look for any treatable causes that need correcting.
An orthoptic assessment is also required for any squints that may be present so that visual
acuity and coordination of the eyes can be assessed.
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The careful explanation of the
surgical procedure and aftercare
removed much stress and concern
whilst at the hospital.
Treatment options
We offer specialist and comprehensive treatment for a very wide range of eye conditions,
including some of the less common and more complex. We bring together the skills of
consultant ophthalmologists with our wider patient care team to create an eye health service
that delivers clinical excellence in an environment that is comfortable, caring and discreet.
Cataract Surgery
Cataracts are treated by replacing the cloudy lens of your eye with a new lens. The old, cloudy
lens is broken and removed using an ultrasound probe. The old lens is replaced with an
artificial lens (implant), which is placed inside the eye in the same position as the old one.
The strength of the implant is calculated before the operation to ensure that it will suit your eye.
The operation is usually carried out through a tiny cut in the eye that seals without any stitches.
The operation is one of the most successful, with more than 95% of patients achieving an
improvement in their vision. Unfortunately cataracts cannot be prevented, but with regular eye
tests, particularly as you get older, cataracts can be picked up in their early stages so that you
can receive treatment sooner.
Corneal Transplant
Some corneal disorders can be treated with topical or systemic medication, glasses or contact
lenses. When corneal disorders become significantly problematic, surgical procedures may be
necessary. Corneal transplantation is a surgical procedure which entails replacement of the
damaged cornea with a healthy cornea, thus improving the function, appearance of the eye
and relieving any discomfort. All types of corneal transplantation (partial or full thickness) are
available.
Glaucoma Treatment
The Chelmsford Eye Clinic uses the most advanced diagnostic techniques to identify if glaucoma
is present. All test results are carefully reviewed by our ophthalmic consultants before being
discussed with the patient. The type of treatment will depend on the severity of the glaucoma
with early cases simply requiring eye drops. More advanced cases may require laser or
conventional surgery which would be carried out with anti-scarring agents. Most importantly,
early stage treatment and repeated testing is effective in preventing glaucoma blindness (which
is why the International Glaucoma Association advises early and regular testing).
www.thechelmsford.co.uk
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Retinal and macular disorders
The treatment of retinal problems and macular disorders depend on the diagnosis. If the patient’s
condition is advanced, they may need intra-vitreous injections which will also require follow up
visits and repeat optical coherence tomography (OCT) testing to assess progress. Lucentis
injections are also commonly used to treat age related macular degeneration (AMD) or
anti-VEGF injections to treat diabetic retinopathy. For either treatment, the patient is given local
anaesthetic eye drops which numb the eye. Recovery is fairly quick and patients typically return
home within an hour or two and resume their normal activities within 24 hours.
Squints / Lazy Eye
Squints are treated depending on the cause. Treatment options include the correction of any
refractive error and occlusion (covering) of the good eye or blurring the vision in the good eye
(penalization) in order to promote the use of the lazy eye. Individual other treatments would
also be necessary depending on the cause, such as removal of cataracts, or squint surgery at
the appropriate stage. Many eyes can show some improvement in vision even to a level equal
to the good eye, but the majority of eyes still have some residual amblyopia. Eyes that show no
improvement may require further investigations to exclude other underlying causes.
Ectropion, Entropion & Ptosis treatment
All these conditions can easily be treated with surgery carried out under local anaesthetic to
correct the position of the eyelid.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is often treatable with simple eyelid hygiene guidance but in resistant or severe cases,
medical treatment is needed.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty is an oculoplastic procedure used to improve the appearance of the eyes by
surgically addressing some of the effects of ageing on the eye lids. Following a blepharoplasty
procedure and the recovery period, the goal is for patients to have more youthful looking eyes.
One-stop consultation and treatment session
Minor eyelid lesions and cysts may be removed during a one-stop consultation and treatment session.
All eye surgery at The Chelmsford is performed as a day-case. As soon as patients feel
comfortable after surgery (and providing it is safe for them to do so) they can recover in the
comfort of their own home.
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www.thechelmsford.co.uk
Because of the high quality of care
and treatment I was given, I felt
safe and reassured and cared for
at all times. This has been the best
treatment and best care I have
ever received.
Our Consultants
Mr Petros Andreou
Mr Hamid Porooshani
BM, FRCOphth
Fellowship of the Royal College of
Ophthalmologists of London FRCOphth
Ophthalmic Consultant Surgeon at
Broomfield Hospital & The Chelmsford.
Specialises in: ophthalmology, glaucoma,
cataract.
Mr Seyed Ghazi-Nouri
Ophthalmic Consultant Surgeon at
Broomfield Hospital & The Chelmsford.
Specialises in: paediatric ophthalmology,
cataract, squint surgery.
BSc (Hons), MBBS, FRCOphth, MD
Mr Ajay Sinha
Ophthalmic Consultant Surgeon at
Broomfield Hospital & The Chelmsford.
MBBS(Hons), MD, FRCOphth
Specialises in: general ophthalmology,
cataract, oculoplastic treatment, Botox.
Mr Dimitris Pimenides
Ophthalmic Consultant Surgeon at
Broomfield Hospital & The Chelmsford.
Specialises in: ophthalmology, cataract,
diabetes, medical retina.
Ophthalmic Consultant Surgeon at
Broomfield Hospital & The Chelmsford.
Specialises in: ophthalmology, cataract,
corneal diseases and transplant, refractive
surgery.
Orthoptists
Ophthalmic Medical Practitioner
Helen Collett
Dr Vibha Rao
DBO D
Specialises in: Amblyopia, ophthalmic
diagnostic testing for glaucoma and
retinal diseases, ocular motility, squint
and paediatric eye care.
Sharon McCabe
Specialises in: ophthalmology, OCT testing,
HFA testing.
Specialises in: ophthalmology, eye
sight testing.
Ophthalmic Lead Practitioner
Michelle Hoare
BSc
Ophthalmic lead theatre practitioner.
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www.thechelmsford.co.uk
Referrals / Appointments
We aim to see anyone suffering from an eye
complaint within 2-4 days of initial contact or
receipt of a referral letter.
Privately insured patients:
Most insurance companies require a letter of
referral. This letter can be sent to us via email,
fax or post.
Self-paying patients:
A referral letter is helpful but not always
a necessity. Patients can book direct for a
consultation and for any other treatment that
is self-funded.
Appointments can be made by calling our
Reception team on 01245 253760 between
8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday, or 8am to
1pm on Saturday.
Prices
If a patient has private medical insurance,
they should check with their provider about
their level of cover. Most policies cover the
cost of treatment for all of the procedures
described in this brochure with the exception of
blepharoplasty and sometimes ptosis surgery.
We are recognised and approved by all major
medical insurance companies but most insurers
will require a referral first.
For patients who do not have medical
insurance but wish to self-pay, we are able to
offer treatment at a comparatively low cost as
we are solely a day-case facility.
Consultations
An initial consultation with one of our
Ophthalmic Consultants costs £180-£200.
Cataract surgery
Prices can vary but typical cataract surgery
costs £1850-£2300 depending on the lens.
Entropion and Ectropion Surgery
The typical price for entropion or ectropion
surgery is £990-£1100.
Macular Degeneration
Consultation and diagnostic testing are
required. If further treatment is needed, your
options will be explained to you at that time.
A rough guide to the price of one course of
Lucentis is £1500 to £1800. Three to four
courses of Lucentis injections are usually
administered over a 4-6 month period.
A follow up consultation costs £90-£120.
Sight testing – by experienced Medical
Ophthalmologist
An initial consultation with an Orthoptist costs
£100-£150.
Cost of sight tests: from £45.
Ophthalmic Diagnostics
A range of tests can be performed including
visual field and OCT at prices ranging from
£90-£195 depending on complexity.
Also, NHS sight tests carried out with a £5
administration charge.
All procedure prices above are inclusive of
facility and surgical fees.
For all other procedures, the fee depends on
the complexity of the condition. Please call us
for further information.
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How to find us
The Chelmsford is located at Fenton House, 85-89 New London Road, Chelmsford CM2 0PP,
directly opposite the Chelmsford & Essex Centre.
By car from the M25
Leave the M25 at junction 28 and proceed eastbound on the A12 towards Chelmsford.
Stay on the A12 and take the Chelmsford exit, signposted junction 15.
At the end of the exit road go straight over the roundabout onto a dual carriageway.
Hylands Park and House is on the left.
At the roundabout go straight over and at the next roundabout turn right (2nd exit).
At Miami Hotel roundabout, turn left into New London Road and follow the road almost
to the end. Fenton House is on the right near the Essex County Court House (Priory Place).
N.B.
Satellite navigation systems sometimes misdirect people to the wrong part of New
London Road.
Parking
Free parking is available for our patients and visitors in bays marked CMC in white paint
at the front and back of the building. Please ask at the security desk for assistance finding
a space if needed.
By Train
The Chelmsford is a ten minute walk or a short taxi ride from Chelmsford station.
Opening hours
8am to 8pm Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings.
T: 01245 253760
E: [email protected]
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Fenton House
85-89 New London Road
Chelmsford
Essex, CM2 0PP
T: 01245 253760
E: [email protected]
www.thechelmsford.co.uk